Tuscola, IL – Drivers across Douglas County and the surrounding Central Illinois region are being urged to use extra caution today as winter conditions bring slick roads and reduced visibility. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office issued a reminder Monday morning highlighting several key safety steps motorists should take as temperatures drop and light snow moves through the area.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, drivers should begin by checking tires, fluids, and windshield wipers to ensure vehicles are winter-ready. Deputies also advised residents to completely clear snow and ice from windows, mirrors, and headlights before traveling. Even small patches of ice can significantly limit visibility or cause unexpected skidding, officials noted.
The sheriff’s office is also asking motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid using cruise control on snowy or icy roads. Deputies said these adjustments provide more reaction time and help prevent slide-offs, especially on rural roads throughout Douglas County and nearby Champaign, Coles, and Moultrie counties.
Drivers are reminded to keep headlights on during daylight snow events and low-visibility periods. Doing so helps other motorists spot approaching vehicles sooner, particularly on two-lane highways such as U.S. Route 36 and Illinois Route 130, where drifting snow can reduce sightlines.
While no major crashes have been reported as of this morning, deputies said conditions can change quickly and urged residents to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency officials. The sheriff’s office added that winter preparedness now may help prevent more serious incidents later in the season.
Residents traveling in and out of the Champaign-Tuscola-Mattoon corridor should plan for slightly longer drive times and remain alert for drifting snow in open areas.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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